Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Veterinary Technology Degree Overview
Veterinary technology programs provide students with the skills needed to work as assistants to veterinarians. Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology programs feature hands-on experience and classroom instruction to help students find entry-level employment.
Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology
Students enrolled in an associate's degree program in veterinary technology can learn how to care for animals within a veterinary office, provide ethical treatment of animals in research labs and assist veterinarians during surgeries. Most AAS in Veterinary Technology programs are available at technical schools and community colleges. The American Veterinary Medical Association accredits veterinary technology programs across the country.
Education Prerequisites
Some AAS programs require students to complete specific biology, chemistry, algebra and computer courses before enrolling in the program. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED.
Course Topics
In addition to general education requirements, students typically complete courses in veterinary medicine and animal science. Students learn how to x-ray and anesthetize animals, analyze blood samples and care for distressed animal patients. Examples of courses offered include:
- Pathology
- Pharmacology
- Animal nutrition
- Radiology
- Veterinary nursing procedures
Employment Outlook and Salary Info
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), employment for veterinary technologists and technicians is expected to increase by 36% from 2008-2018 (www.bls.gov). The increase may be due to rising pet ownership numbers and a higher demand for veterinary services. In May 2010, the BLS reported that veterinary technologists and technicians earned a median annual salary of $29,710.
Continuing Education and Certification Information
Graduates can seek immediate employment or pursue bachelor's degree programs in veterinary technology. Students enrolled in these 4-year programs take additional courses in animal science and receive pre-clinical training.
Veterinary technicians and technologists must typically be licensed, certified or registered within the state where they want to practice. The American Association of Veterinary State Boards administers the Veterinary Technician National Examination. Associate's degree holders can sit for state certification tests.
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11 Popular Schools
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must live within close proximity to school locations
- Must be graduated from high school by 2011
School locations:
- Arizona (1 campus)
- Florida (2 campuses)
- New York (1)
- Pennsylvania (1)
- Texas (1)
Classroom-Based Programs
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Minnesota (1 campus)
Classroom-Based Programs
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
- Currently not accepting applications from Texas residents
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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Associate
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- AS in Medical Assisting
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- California (4 campuses)
- Colorado (1 campus)
- Florida (4)
- Missouri (1)
- Oregon (1)
- Tennessee (1)
- Texas (3)
Classroom-Based Programs
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Associate
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- Associate - Medical Assistant
- Associate - Neurodiagnostic Technology
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- Associate - Pharmacy Technician
- Associate - Respiratory Therapy
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School locations:
- Online Learning
- Arizona (3 campuses)
- California (16)
- Colorado (3)
- Florida (6)
- Georgia (4)
- Illinois (8)
- Indiana (2)
- Kentucky (1)
- Maryland (1)
- Michigan (1)
- Minnesota (1)
- Missouri (2)
- North Carolina (2)
- New Jersey (3)
- Nevada (1)
- New York (2)
- Ohio (4)
- Oklahoma (1)
- Oregon (1)
- Pennsylvania (5)
- Tennessee (2)
- Texas (7)
- Utah (1)
- Virginia (3)
- Washington (3)
- Wisconsin (2)
Online and Classroom-Based Programs
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
- Associate
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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Associate
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- AAS in Medical Assisting
- AS in Health Science
- AAS in Medical Office Management
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- AAS in Medical Transcription
- ASHS in Preventive Medicine
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Florida (1 campus)
- New York (1 campus)
- Oregon (1)
Classroom-Based Programs
-
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Colorado (3 campuses)
Classroom-Based Programs
- Associate
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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Associate
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- AA in Health Care Administration
- AA in Health Care Administration - Electronic Health Records
- AA in Health Care Administration - Health & Wellness Administration
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- AA in Health Care Administration - Medical Records
- Associate of Arts Foundations in Health Care Administration
- Associate of Arts Foundations in Health Care Administration/Medical Records
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